Togo: Nationwide opposition protests November 7-9 /update 7

Event

Togo is in the midst of a multi-day nationwide protest campaign, with demonstrations scheduled for November 7, 8, and 9. On Tuesday, November 7, thousands gathered for a protest march in the capital city of Lomé to demand the resignation of President Faure Gnassingé. The march occurred without incident.

Additional protest marches are scheduled to occur in the capital on November 8 and 9. The marches are expected to begin early in the morning, with three different announced routes, all ending near the Hotel Sancta Maria. The first route will start in Bè, continue onto the Marché de Bè, Boulevard Félix Houphouët Boigny, and Boulevard Circulaire. The second and third routes will begin near Atikoumé and établissement CCP, proceed down the Boulevard de lar Kara, merge near the Dekon neighborhood, and head toward the Hotel Sancta Maria on the Boulevard Ciculaire. Major transportation disruptions should be expected. It is reported that the protest organizers are coordinating with police to ensure the events occur without incident. However, clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Additionally, security forces were reportedly deployed to prevent protesters from gathering in Sokodé (center) on Tuesday. At least ten people were injured in clashes with police. Further violence cannot be ruled out, as protesters are planning to attempt to assemble again on November 8 and 9.

Meanwhile, the Togolese government announced on Monday, November 6, that it is opening discussions with the political opposition in the hope of finding a solution to the ongoing crisis. On Tuesday, the government released 42 demonstrators detained since September and dropped arson charges from 2013 against opposition leader Jean Pierre Fabre.

Context

Numerous opposition sit-ins and marches - some of which have turned violent - have been held in Lomé and other cities over the past two months. The demonstrations have been organized by various opposition groups, including the Parti National Panafricain (PNP), the Combat pour l'Alternance Politique en 2015 (CAP 2015), and the Groupe des Six. Thousands have taken to the streets demanding President Gnassingbé, in power since 2005, step down. Demonstrators have also demanded the unconditional release of those arrested during past protests, the immediate cessation of prosecutions and violence against opposition activists and leaders, and the establishment of an independent international commission to investigate violence committed by security forces against protesters. At least 16 people have been killed and around 200 wounded in opposition protests since mid-August.

Advice

Individuals in Togo are advised to avoid all public gatherings (particularly political events) due to the risk of violence and to monitor the situation. Be prepared to shelter in place in the event of further unrest or a sudden deterioration in the country’s security situation (stock up on food, water, and other necessities).